If that's the picture of it, then I'm a little disappointed. I would hope for something more along the lines of the '70's R bikes.
I have been thinking recently that if they were to release an updated GSPD, new motor and modern tele based suspension, they would be sold non stop. Keep the old paint scheme and the rugged look with all the add ons that the PD had like the guards, damn.... sales would be off the chains.
If that's it, the bike has about as much character as an aluminum bat. Looks like an R-bike with a cafe seat. I expect a little more of them.
Read the part where they say they're going to introduce it next year. I can guarantee that's not the bike.
Time will tell. The disconnect between BMW design, marketing, engineering, and accounting may still prevail. (Just look at the nonsensical designation changes from F650 singles to G650 singles to the f 800/650 twins). Even if kbasa doesn't know more than he's telling, I'm following what he says - there's room for much change. Given the environmental constraints of today vs what old fashioned engines can deliver, it will be interesting to see what BMW cobbles together. It would be nicer if they produced some of the NLA parts from the real retro bikes. Can I get an Amen?
bmw is a joke. they have SO many cool bikes from the 30s and 40s to pull ideas from, they could come up with some wonderful retro stuff, but they instead cut the fenders off an oilhead and call it retro. What a joke.
One thing is for sure, there is no way it will be an airhead. That counts me out of the "interested" group.
Of course they'd build it on an existing platform - that's understood. But the styling, at least from the drawing, is more sporty and retro than any of the current offerings. The detail is lacking, so don't really know what to expect with the tank and the area in front of it. Will it have a radiator? (ugly) That's one of the things that turned me off about most of the newer Rs - the way the oil coolers were faired in making the tank look too fat in front. But they show wire wheels, large round headlight and a cafe look. For the guys who won't or can't build a bike, but will buy a new one, this will possibly sell.
Cycle world had a write-up/teaser about this a few months back. http://www.cycleworld.com/2012/07/06/spied-lo-rider-concept/ Anxious to see what evolves. .
They need to do something that strongly resembles an R7. Of course Chevrolet should bring out a modern 55 Chevy. Rod
I actually like that, but no way would I spend 5k for the kit, plus whatever the r12gs costs! besides, got the real deal sitting in the garage!
I wish they would build one of these....but maybe with a rear suspension. Zundapp KS800 They were a 4 cylinder boxer motor. I believe they came out in the mid 30's but the German Military demand for motorcycles gobbeled up most of them and turned manufacturing prioroties towards military machines. Not too many of these around anymore. I've read they are pretty much a handful to ride. But the engines are smooth as silk. I used to own this Zundapp 1953 KS601......but didn't have deep enough pockets to restore it. Parts are VERY difficult to obtain and are very expensive.
If they really want do go "retro" and pay homage to their origins, something like this would be a good start- Leave it as a hardtail, and keep the other end similar to this one, improved only with updated materials and damping that works. No point in adding rear suspension, as these things will only be used for short rides, and why add a newer-flavored suspension that has more failure points than advantages?. Keep it as a flattie too... they've got enough low-end grunt to make for a pleasant ride, and the way our gas is heading, the requiem low C/R might become an advantage.
